Choose the option that correctly identifies which component of the electron transport chain is inhibited by cyanide

A) nadh dehydrogenase complex

B) cytochrome

C) succinate dehydrogenase

D) cytochrome b/c1 complex

E) cytochrome oxidase

The correct answer is E. The component of the electron transport chain that is inhibited by cyanide is the cytochrome oxidase.

Explanation:

Cyanide is potentially lethal, acting as toxic through the inhibition of the cytochrome c oxidase complex, and thus blocking the electron transport chain, the central system of the cellular respiration process. Consequently, it causes a decrease in the production of intracellular ATP, preventing homeostasis of the cells. It also affects, being negatively charged, the transfer of electrons through channels, creating a positive environment within the cell.

The main harmful and lethal effect of the various cyanide varieties is to prevent the oxygen carried by the red blood cells from being used as a hydrogen acceptor at the end of the intramitochondrial respiratory chain. In an autopsy, the body has a large amount of oxygen in the veins and a large amount of lactic acid, a product of fermentation carried out by oxygen-free cells.